Portugal · work · guide
Portugal Highly Qualified Activity Permit: requirements
This guide explains how to get a residence permit for highly qualified work in Portugal.
MIGRAGENT wrote this from 10 requirements on the official page, each checked against the government's own wording. Updated 2026-10-02. Source: https://aima.gov.pt/pt/trabalhar/autorizacao-de-residencia-para-atividade-altamente-qualificada-art-90-o
Who can apply
You must not have been convicted of any crime that carries a prison sentence of more than one year in Portugal.[1]
What you need to show
You must hold a valid residence visa specifically for highly qualified activity. You also need to present a valid passport.[2][3]
You must provide a certified copy of your degree certificate or another document that proves your specialization.[4]
You must show proof that you are registered with the tax administration and with social security.[5][6]
You must submit an authenticated criminal record from your country of nationality or the country where you lived for more than a year before moving to Portugal.[7]
You must fill out the mandatory Model 1 form. You also need to write a declaration under honor stating your residential address and the terms under which you live there.[8][9][10]
Checklist
- A valid passport[3]
- A valid residence visa for highly qualified activity[2]
- A certified copy of your degree certificate or proof of specialization[4]
- An authenticated criminal record from your home country or previous country of residence[7]
- Proof of registration with the tax administration[5]
- Proof of registration with social security[6]
- A signed declaration under honor of your residential address and terms of residence[9][10]
- The completed Model 1 form[8]
Questions people ask
Can I apply if I have a criminal record?
You cannot get this permit if you have been convicted of a crime that is punishable by a prison sentence of more than one year in Portugal. You must also submit an authenticated criminal record from your country of nationality or any country where you lived for more than a year before coming to Portugal.[1][7]
What visa do I need before applying for this permit?
You must hold a valid residence visa that was issued specifically for highly qualified activity.[2]
How do I prove my qualifications for this permit?
You must provide a certified copy of your degree certificate or a document that proves your professional specialization.[4]
Do I need to register with Portuguese public services?
Yes. You must show proof that you are registered with both the tax administration and social security.[5][6]
How do I prove where I live in Portugal?
You must submit a declaration under honor stating your residential address and explaining the terms under which you live there.[9][10]
This explains what one official page says. It is not legal advice, and the page itself is the authority. Rules change; the wire reports it when they do.